Valentine's Day tomorrow? Really?

This year is already going by so fast. I can't believe that tomorrow is Valentine's and that we're already half-way through February. My writing has been kinda slow. I'm excited and nervous about the fourth Primordial Guardians novel coming out in (hopefully) March, and can't wait to find out how bad my edits are and how awesome the cover will be.

I'm attempting to take a break from my Guardians right now... notice the word "attempt." I've been trying to give some love to one of my other WIPs, and sometimes I have an amazing day (or hours or minutes, or whatever time I can squeeze in) writing, while other times, those Guardians force their way into the center-stage of my mind and work their sexy immortal whammy on me. Even more confusing, sometimes my current WIPs hero and/or heroine won't give up the stage so they're all fighting at the same time and causing some very confusing scenes to pop-up in my head. Yikes.

Anyhoo. I'm hoping to really work on this other project. I'm not sure I'll be able to finish it before the Guardians shove their way in and take over, but we'll see how far I get.

Well, back to work. I just wanted to say "Happy Valentine's Day" to all my fans.

Tina Pollick's Gabriel

Tina Pollick has joined me today to talk about her Paranormal Romance, Gabriel.


About the Author:

When Tina Pollick isn’t writing paranormal romance about Heavenly hunks, and smart, sassy women, this RN enjoys a quiet home life with her husband, children, two horses, two dogs, cat, chickens, guineas, well sort of quiet.

Tina has just finished her first Urban Fantasy novel, GABRIEL, A Kematian Hunter Series and is working on the first book of another Urban Fantasy series, SOUL BROKER.

You can find Tina Pollick on Facebook and Twitter. Stop by and say hello.




Tina, thanks so much for joining me. What do you do when you are not writing? 

Laundry, clean the house, play taxi driver, and the list goes on and on. :) 

Do you have a day job as well? 

I’m a registered nurse, I do seasonal work from home chart audits. I also run my husband’s business.

When did you first start writing and when did you finish your first book? 

I started writing the second week of June I finished this novel August 4th. This is the first novel I’ve written.

How did you choose the genre you write in? 

I love to read paranormal romance. I guess that’s why I write it.

Where do you get your ideas? 

‘What if’. Seriously what if questions are the foundation of my stories. My husband loves to watch all the learning shows on tv and while I’m watching and then I think ‘what if’ this happened. Then an idea starts to form and before I know it I have an idea for a new story.

How and why did you start writing? 

I always wanted to write a novel and I decided to go for it. Before I knew it GABRIEL was born.

What is your favorite part of the book? 

Hmmm, that’s like asking me to chose which one of my kids are my favorite. *laughs* I guess the answer would be the same. Whichever kid is cleaning their room is the favorite in that moment. Same for GABRIEL it depends on what kind of mood I’m in. I like the humor that’s throughout the book, so I’m going to say… all of it. :) *blows kisses to both kids* I love you both the same. :)

What was the hardest part to write in the book? 

The fight scenes were really hard. I had them really girlie, but some critique friends help me ‘man’ them up. :)

Is there anything you wish was different about the book? 

For my first novel, I’m going to say no. I learned a lot while writing this book. I’m using that knowledge so the next books go a little smoother. 

If you could have dinner with one person, dead or alive, who would it be and why? 

That’s a tough question. There are a lot of people I’ve lost, but I’m going to say my grandma Kazmerski. She was a big influence in my life. She passed away before I graduated from nursing school. She was a nurse too. I’d like to tell her how nursing has changed, tell her about my books, talk about my kids, and just hug her. 

What was your life like before becoming an author? 

Nothings changed. Ask me in a year maybe I’ll have a different answer. :)

How personal is your writing? 

All fictional. If you think a character resembles you in real life it’s a coincidence. All characters are 100% made up. 

What is your writing routine? 

I like to write in the evenings, but that’s family time so I’m trying to learn to become a daytime writer. I’m not a morning person so it’s really challenging some days. *laughs*

Which comes first: The character's story or the idea for the novel? 

The character. Then I throw in my ‘what if’s’ and a story is born. 

What advice do you have for someone who would like to become a published author? 

Write. You can dream about writing your whole life or you can pick up a pen and paper and write. Once you have something written, whether it’s a novel or short story, find someone to help you edit it. Make sure you have a good support system. 

Do you ever experience writer’s block? 

Yeah I have. I realized it was because I was freaking myself out. Once I got past the freaking out phase, the words started to flow again.

Do you work with an outline, or just write? 

I’m a halfster. I do a very rough one page outline. And by outline I mean I draw squares on a page and fill them in with a few words. I like to know where the story is going, but I also like it when my characters take me to unexpected places.

If you had to go back and do it all over, is there any aspect of your novel or getting it published that you would change? 

I tried to get an agent before I decided to submit directly to publishers. Trying to get an agent was not a pleasant experience. I didn’t get any negative feedback it was more the lack of feedback or responses I received. GABRIEL almost remained in my computer. I didn’t know very much about agents or publishers at the time so I really took the lack of response personally. Luckily I belong to an awesome critique group, and the girls picked me up, dusted me off, and sent me out again. Giving up is hard to do when you have a great group of friends cheering you on. 

What are you working on now? 

I just finished a novella PR, SOUL BROKER. Now I’m working on the sequel to GABRIEL, which is called RAPHAEL. Notice a theme here? :) I also have another new series that I’m in the planning stages. 

How did you come up with the title? 

I suck at titles. The MC is Gabriel so the title is GABRIEL.

Are there certain characters you would like to go back to, or is there a theme or idea you’d love to work with? 

GABRIEL is the first in a seven book series. You’ll see reoccurring characters throughout the series. 

What has been the toughest criticism given to you as an author? What has been the best compliment? 

I was told by a critique that my story sucked. That was hard, especially when the only art that was read was the prologue. My skin is getting thicker, but unkind words are… still unkind words.

The best compliment. Another critique compared my style to Sherrilyn Kenyon. I love her books so that was a huge compliment. One that I’m not sure I deserve, but it was appreciated nonetheless.

Is there anything that you would like to say to your readers and fans? 

Read GABRIEL. *laughs* I don’t have any fans, so I have plenty of room to jump on board. I’m pretty down to earth so if anyone has a question about the book, please contact me on my website. I’d love to hear from you. 

Where do you find the most inspiration to write? 

The love from my family. You can’t fail when you’re surrounded by support, encouragement and love.

I couldn't agree more. So, onto some not-so-regular questions...
Have you ever gone out in public with your shirt on backwards, or your slippers on, and when realizing it, just said screw it? 

Ummm, no. I did go to work once with two different shoes on. They were both navy and it was early and…

Do you prefer fuzzy or tube socks? 

Neither. I like to be barefoot. 

Are you a person who makes their bed in the morning, or do you not see much point? 

I used to once upon a time ago, but then I have to mess it up when I take an afternoon nap so who cares. Just kidding, about the nap. *laughs* 

Be honest, how often do you wash your hair? 

Everyday during the summer, but every other day during the winter. My hair is long and it gets dry in the winter, so I try not to abuse it too much.

Do you get road rage? What pisses you off the most about other drivers? 

I don’t, but my husband is horrible. I get pissed off when I’m riding with him. *laughs* 

Do you go out of your way to kill bugs? Are there any that make you screech and hide? 

Oh for all that’s freaking holy, I hate spiders. I mean stand on a chair and scream, hate them. When my kids were really young, I would kill them and show them it’s no big deal, all the while screaming on the inside. Now my kids kill them for me. 

Which of your characters would you like to meet in person and why? 

None, they all spend way too much time in my head, yelling at me to get their story written. Yelling to get more time on paper. Yelling that I didn’t give them enough action. *laughs*

Oh, I absolutely know what you mean there. Can you tell us about your upcoming book?

Blurb:

When demons sunder ancient bonds, a love-match between a valiant archangel and a selfless nurse brings humanity's last hope -- but demon-taint may destroy them both. The prison the archangels have guarded, housed deep within the earth is destroyed, releasing Kematians (demons) to feed upon humanity. The angels are losing the battle again as the Kematians ability to regenerate hampers the angel’s ability to destroy them. Gabriel is stabbed by an Angel Killing Sword; he’s accepted his fate that he will die; only to be revived by Calla’s ability to heal. Calla Stevens, RN, tries to find who or what is killing the victims that are coming into the ER, only to be infected herself when she comes face-to-face with the Kematians. Calla has saved Gabriel once, is she’s willing to trade her life for his this time? Archangel Gabriel struggles with new emotions as he discovers Calla is his soul mate. He strives to defend humanity, with the assistance of his brother Archangel Michael and new human friends. Gabriel will have to choose whether he will live or die when his future with Calla is destroyed.

CONTENT WARNING: Spicy sex.

Book can be purchased here:
Evernight ,Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Bookstrand, All Romance e-Books, Sony, Apple, Chapters-Indigo/KOBO, Coffee Time Romance and Rainbow Ebooks.


Excerpt:

“Are you kidding me? You weigh maybe a hundred pounds soaking wet. What do you think you’re doing walking alone at night?” She noticed Eric looking down at all five feet three inches of her, scowling. “Let me give you a ride home.”

Eric’s radio went off. “Shit. I have to go, Calla, another attack. Call a cab, please.”

“Yeah, sure.”

He hurried away. Calla walked in the opposite direction, towards her house. She took this path three to four days a week on her way home from work. There wasn’t any way she was going to call a cab.

She heard footsteps closing in behind her. Alarmed, she wrapped her hand around the can of mace in her pocket and picked up her pace.

The footsteps were gone. Had she imagined them? Calla turned her head to look but she was alone. “Get it together, chicken. You’re scaring yourself now.”

She rounded the corner nearing an alley. A trickle of red blood flowed from it, creeping onto the sidewalk. Calla stopped in front of a pathway as uneasiness washed over her. Fear and ethics battled within her. Ethics won, but her legs felt like lead, and they weren’t moving. She forced herself to take a few steps and spotted a mound lying next to the wall.

After several tense seconds, she tightened her grip on the can of mace and slowly made her way towards the heap on the ground.

This is exactly how all the stupid girls are killed in the movies. They go walking right into danger, and boom, they’re dead.

Approaching the mound, she trembled. As she moved closer she saw a tanned foot sticking out from the trench coat. Calla bent down, her chest heaving, hands shaking as she reached the foot and gave it a quick shake, but nothing happened. Relax, before you hyperventilate and end up on the ground, too. Breathe, Calla, breathe.

She stood, crept forward, and reached for what she hoped was the head. She knelt down and pulled back the thick trench coat. His head turned to the side, face badly beaten, eyes cracked to reveal a glimmer of the brightest green she had ever seen.

“Holy shit!” She jumped back, startled.

The man didn’t move. She bent down again this time reaching for his neck. The pulse was weak. She had already used her gifts twice this evening, and her body still ached from the two previous failures. “Focus. You can do this.” She struggled to turn the man onto his back. When she finally rolled him over there was a knife, with a green hue as if the metal was oxidized, protruding out of his chest.

“Of course there’s a knife,” Calla murmured to herself.

“I’m going to try to help you,” she whispered in his ear. She knew she might not be able to save him, but she had to try. If she could pull the knife out in a quick motion she could heal him. She placed her hands around the hilt of the knife and pulled. Nothing happened. “Maybe if I get some leverage.”

Calla straddled the man, planting one tennis shoe on each side of his limp body. She bent down and wrapped both hands around the hilt and pulled with everything she had. The knife began to move—barely—but it was moving. It felt like pulling a rubber boot stuck in thick mud. After a few more attempts the suction released, and the knife was freed.

She collapsed on his chest and sat up, placing both palms on the bleeding wound. “Please, oh please let this work.” Calla focused on the wound, gathering energy. Then her hands began to glow. Sweat dripped matting blonde hair to her forehead, and her vision began to dim. “I won’t let you die,” she promised.

Then darkness embraced her.

Thanks again for meeting with me, Tina. Gabriel sounds fantastic!

The delectable Giorgio from Doris O'Connor's Too Devious To Tame

I'd like to welcome Giorgio Giovanni today, from Doris O'Connor's contemporary, romantic suspense, Too Devious To Tame (Giovanni Clan, 3)

Thank you for meeting with me, today. What is your full name?

Giorgio Beppe Giovanni at your service.

Why were you given that name?

My mamma, lord rest her soul, chose Giorgio. Beppe after my lousy excuse of a father.

When were you born?

July 17th 1981

What is your preferred style of clothing to wear?

Designer jeans and tee shirt. Armani suits in business meetings, of course. I like to dress for comfort, but in style.

Do you have a personal scent (perfume or cologne)? 

Gucchi Guilty

Do you have any siblings?

No siblings, just too many cousins to mention.

Who has been your greatest influence? 

That would be Don Luigi. His wife Giada was a friend of my mother's and when she died so suddenly in a car accident, Giada and Don Luigi took me under their wing and stopped me from going off the rails completely. I was all set to follow in my father's footsteps. The Don gave me a job in the 'family', he gave me purpose and he reminds me every day that honour is the most important code we can live by. Regardless of what the world thinks of you, you need to be able to look at yourself in the mirror every morning. And you never, ever renege on a promise.

Where did you grow up? How do you feel about it now?

At the Giovanni vineyard in Tuscany. It has been in our family for four generations. A Giovanni grew the first grapes on that hill, and one day my sons will take over, God willing. Life was good here, until mamma died. After that, not so much. Beppe Giovanni did his best to run the business into the ground to afford his whores. Once he was killed, life was hard. I poured all my energies into rebuilding the vineyard with the help of the Don. I'm proud to say, that Giovanni wine is once again sought after.

Where do you currently live?

On my vineyard, though we divide our time between Tuscany and London, as business and family dictates.

What sort of a home is it?

We have a town house in London, close to Hampstead Heath and a rather rambling and charming abode here on the vineyard. The house has been added to over the years, as each new Giovanni took over. You'd have to ask Jemima, what she thinks of it. With her artist's eye she's truly brought it to life and made it into a home.

With whom do you live? How do you feel about that person / people?

My family, plus my trusted house keeper, and a selection of handpicked security team. The local villagers come and go with the season, as harvesting requires them to. We're a tight unit and I trust each of them with my life.

Do you have any pets?

Dannazioni, too many to mention. Jem seems incapable of refusing any stray that she happens to find, and I swear she finds them all.

What is your current job title / social station / rank?

Business man and Vineyard Owner.

How do you think your colleagues would describe you?

Determined to succeed, ruthless in business, and honourable.

What is currently your biggest responsibility?

My family and the families who work for me.

Who is your best friend?

One of the Don's security. Alfonso and I grew close over protecting Jemima. We understand each other, and I know he would protect my family with his life.

Who is your biggest rival or enemy? 

Luc Beauchamp. He's a French vineyard owner and the bane of my existence, both professionally and personally. And no, I am not explaining why. Suffice to say if he dies tomorrow I would dance on his grave.

Haha, fair enough.
What is your greatest talent?

I have a head for business, and grow excellent vino. As for my other talents, you would have to ask my wife… *smirks*

*Grins back* Okay, I think I might have to schedule an interview with her as well.What would you say you're the most hopeless at?

Being patient.

What, if anything, do you do to keep fit and healthy?

I run through the vineyard every day. I also swim and we have a gym room, like most people.

How would you spend an unexpected day off?

Just relaxing with my family.

What sort of vehicle do you rely on?

A Lamborghini of course. I also a have Range Rover and a BMW.

How deeply does your job define you as a person?

The vineyard is my heritage and my destiny. I strive to make it the best I can for future generations of the Giovanni.

What is your most cherished possession?

My wife. *grins* Seriously, my family are the most important thing to me.

What makes you blush?

Do I look as though I blush?

(Well, doesn't that just make a girl blush.)
How do you feel, generally, about the opposite sex?

I love women, always have done. Their scent, the softness of their skin, their fragility, coupled with that inner toughness. I have enjoyed lots of women over the years. Nowadays, I just enjoy my wife—frequently.
*winks*

How do you feel about children? Do you have or want to have your own?

Children are our future. Without them, what would we have? As to whether I have any – spoilers – my lips are sealed.

How did the two of you meet?

Jem and I met in Verona. She had a disagreement with one of my countrymen, which resulted in her losing all her art work. You could say we bonded under a shop canopy in a rain storm. *smirks*

I take it the rain wasn't the only thing pounding? *blushes instantly* Um ... moving on. What were you doing before you met Jemima? 

I worked hard, and played even harder. And my life was an empty shell, where I made too many dumb choices which could have destroyed all I hold dear. I am a better person for having met her, though it didn't seem like it at the time.

BLURB:

When Giorgio Giovanni tracks the troublesome Jemima down in a hospital bed in Italy, he has one thing on his mind—revenge. However, the fragile woman he encounters is not the devious female he remembers. When it becomes clear that she is in danger, he risks everything to keep her safe.

Left for dead, Jemima wakes up in hospital, terrified, and with no idea of her identity. The angry man, who comes to claim her, is the only link to a shared past she can't remember. A past that threatens to destroy them, and all she has ever held dear.

With danger all around them, and their sexual chemistry off the scale, can they find their way back to each other, or is the past too devious to tame?

                                                                                       

EXCERPT:            

Tears clouded her vision at the concern in his voice, and he swore and moved to untie her.

"No, I'm fine, really. Leave it. Show me how it should be, please. Help me to forget."

He stared at her for the longest time, one large hand, hot and heavy on her belly, his gaze so intense it took her breath away.  When he finally smiled, it lit up his harsh features. She didn't catch the murmured Italian words he mumbled under his breath, but the kiss that followed had her curl her toes into the bed with the effort to not release herself from her bonds and bury her hands in his hair to make him hurry up and fuck her.

He was breathing as heavily as she by the time he released her, and she bit back a moan when he simply ripped the rest of her dress off her. Her bra and knickers followed the fate of her dress, until she lay in front of him naked, wet, and wanting. He ran his knuckles slowly up and down her tummy in ever widening circles, and then reached across to the ice bucket with a slow grin.

"Shut your eyes for me, cara."   His voice had dropped an octave, and her stomach dropped right with it, seeing him hold a couple of ice cubes in his fingers. She shook her head and bucked off the bed, when he flicked his hand over her breasts. Ice cold drops of water fell on her skin and trickled between the valley of her breasts. He licked the drops away, his warm tongue taking away the coldness left by the water.

"Shut your eyes, trust me. This will be so much better for you when you can't see what I'm doing." He kissed a path down her quivering tummy, and she blinked back tears at the tender way he caressed her abdomen. He paused to drop a long kiss just above her pubic bone, and his hot breath teased her wet folds. Her clit tingled, and she shut her eyes, as he renewed his request for her to do so. She couldn't see what he was doing, but the bed dipped as he adjusted his weight again. His hot mouth closed over one of her nipples at the same time as the other was subjected to an ice cube being circled around it.

She gasped at the intense sensation, and Giorgio swapped sides. The difference between his warm mouth and tongue and the ice cube sent her body into spasms of need. She writhed under him, and he laughed. Again and again he repeated the process all along her body. A path of ice, followed by the warmth of his tongue as he licked the icy trails away, leaving fiery awareness in its wake. By the time he finally reached her pussy, she was hovering on the brink of orgasm. She whimpered her need when he pushed an ice cube high into her channel and then proceeded to lick around her clit, careful to never touch her when she needed him most. The melting ice cube mixed in with her own juices and trickled slowly out her hole. Her pussy clenched, and she didn't recognize the needy voice pleading with him to please do something.

He blew against her slit and shouldered her legs wider.

"Così bello, e tutto mio."   He followed the words with a kiss, and she screamed when he pulled her clit into his mouth and swirled his tongue around it, at the same time as he pushed another ice cube into her empty channel. Her walls closed around the slippery object, and spasmed wildly as the first quivers of her orgasm hit. Giorgio groaned into her core and stepped up his sweet torture on her clit. When he pushed two fingers into her core, and massaged her sweet spot, the intensity of her orgasm hit her with the full force of freight train.

"That's it, tesoro, fly for me." He caught her scream of release in his mouth, and she could taste herself in the passionate kiss he gave her, dimly aware of him withdrawing his fingers and replacing them with his cock. Thick, hard, and so very long he filled her completely as he pushed into her swollen core, until he was seated to the hilt. She wrapped her legs around him and dug her feet into his calves to give him better access and to take him as deep as she could. He started thrusting, every move driving him deeper into her, and tumbling her right over the edge again, as her inner muscles contracted around his thick member. Faster and faster he pumped, his harsh breathing in her ear the most erotic sound ever, his hands and lips seemingly everywhere, arousing every little bit of skin he touched until her whole body was a mass of sensation. Again her body climbed toward that peak of sheer joy, and this time Giorgio was with her every step of the ecstatic journey they took together. Her eyes flew open, and she drowned in the rolling depths of emotion she saw reflected in his, as they came together in their explosive release.

When her body finally stopped shaking, she could taste the salt of tears in her mouth. Giorgio kissed them off her face, and he released her from her bonds, and pulled her into his embrace. She had to smile at his grumbled, "If this is pretending, then I hate to see what will happen when we do this for real."

Too Devious To Tame released January 28^th

Buy Link: http://www.evernightpublishing.com/too-devious-to-tame-by-doris-oconnor/

Author Bio:

Glutton for punishment would be a good description for Doris... at least that's what she hears on an almost daily basis when people find out that she has a brood of nine children, ranging from adult to toddler and lives happily in a far too small house, cluttered with children, pets, dust bunnies, and one very understanding and supportive husband. Domestic goddess she is not.

There is always something better to do after all, like working on the latest manuscript and trying not to scare the locals even more than usual by talking out loud to the voices in her head. Her characters tend to be pretty insistent to get their stories told, and you will find Doris burning the midnight oil on a regular basis. Only time to get any peace and quiet and besides, sleep is for wimps.

She likes to spin sensual, sassy, and sexy tales involving alpha heroes to die for, and heroines who give as good as they get. From contemporary to paranormal, BDSM to F/F, and Ménage, haunting love stories are guaranteed.

Find Doris on the web here:

Website Blog Twitter Facebook Pinterest

Thanks so much for joining me today Giorgio, you made me blush more times than I'd like to admit. And a special thanks for making the introduction, Doris. 
I can't wait to read this book - that excerpt is hot!!
... Now, where is my husband?

Piper Kay's Twisted Cherry

Today I'm meeting with Piper Kay, author of Twisted Cherry, which is an M/M Erotica published with Evernight Publishing. Piper has also arranged for me to interview Gabe from Twisted Cherry, so read on to find out more about Piper and Gabe.

So Piper, tell me a little bit about yourself. 

I’m just a country girl from the Houston area and the mother of three children. I currently have my story published with Evernight Publishing and I’m working on two others as well.

What do you do when you are not writing?

When not writing, I’m usually spending time with my family, but I’ll catch a movie or a concert every once in a while.

What are you working on now? 

Eight Second Cowboy is my current WIP.

Can you tell us about your upcoming book? 

The WIP revolves around two characters, Lance and Matt who are both pro bull riders. They are the best riders on the rodeo circuit and huge rivals. They’ve both been burned by love and find it hard to trust anyone, but when an accident brings them together, their outlook on what’s important overrides everything.  

Will you have a new book coming out soon? 

Yes, Eight Second Cowboy

Do you have any advice to give to aspiring writers? 

Write every day and never let anyone tell you that you can’t or won’t be able to become an author.

Is there anything that you would like to say to your readers and fans? 

I would love to thank my readers and fans. If I could, I would give them a big hug.

Where do you find the most inspiration to write? 

Through music most of the time because it’s so powerful and emotional.

Have you ever gone out in public with your shirt on backwards, or your slippers on, and when realizing it, just said screw it? 

Yes, my pajamas and slippers and I realized it when I pulled into the grocery store parking lot, and said eff it.

Haha. Alright, do you prefer fuzzy or tube socks? 

Tube socks.

Be honest, how often do you wash your hair? 

Every other day.

Do you get road rage? What pisses you off the most about other drivers? 

I do get road rage at times. I cannot stand when someone goes slow in the fast lane or when someone tries to turn from a non-turn lane. I’m all over my horn, and my vocabulary turns into an array of curse words.

Which of your characters would you like to meet in person and why? 

I’d like to meet Gabe, because he’s a hottie, but he could give me a new tattoo.

Great! Thanks for answering some questions. Now let's turn to Gabe from Twisted Cherry.Hi Gabe, I know your real name is Gabriel, which name are you known by? 

I go by Gabe, and yes I do prefer it

When were you born? 

January of 1989

Do you have any scars, tattoos, piercings? What do they mean to you? 

I do have tattoos and each one means something different. The most important one is the one on my chest with my mother’s name in it.

What is your preferred style of clothing to wear? 

Jeans and a wife beater

Where did you grow up? How do you feel about it now? 

I grew up in Houston and moved out in the country to get away from the business of city life.

What is your current job title / social station / rank? 

I’m the owner of the Twisted Cherry tattoo parlor.

How do you think your colleagues would describe you? 

Patient and dedicated.

What sort of vehicle / transportation do you rely on? 

A black and red Vulcan 900 motorcycle.

How did the two (or however many) of you meet? 

Evan came in looking to get some art work done, and I was instantly taken. The more we talked and were around each other, the more we connected. Everything took off from there.

Thanks for meeting with me, Gabe. I can't wait to read about you and Evan. And thanks again, Piper!
Click here to find out more about Twisted Cherry.

Not a trilogy anymore, folks!

I really should have posted this last night, but to be honest I've been exhausted since even before my root canal a couple of days ago. I have been internally happy-dancing around my house since it happened (my face still hurts too much to really do it), and I woke up bright and early this morning, ready to share the news... Primordial Guardians won't have just three books in the series for long.

I just signed the contract last night for the fourth novel in the Primordial Guardians series, Rapture. I've been contacted by a few fans ever since Born of Silence released, and it seems that everyone is curious about what happens to different Guardians. So, I have a question: Which character(s) do you hope Rapture is about?

I still can't believe my fourth book is contracted. It has been such a crazy year, and I couldn't be happier that I've been able to spend as much time with my boys as I've been able to.

Immortal Guardians Series Name Change

It's been an interesting week for me. Not only has my little baby been sick for a week, stressing me out beyond belief, but my husband and I have been sick as well, having different symptoms of that flu that's affecting the population. Oh, and I have tooth pain to boot - I'm pretty sure I'll be having a root canal shortly.

As stressful as those things have been, there was yet another thing that hit: I was informed that I could no longer use Immortal Guardians as my series name if I wanted to avoid problems. This came as quite a shock,  and was very heartbreaking especially considering that my boys have been the Immortal Guardians since I started writing about them in 2009. It doesn't feel right that someone can take it away from me, but it still happened anyway.

So, to my fans who know and love my Immortal Guardians, the series still lives on, it's just called "Primordial Guardians" instead. Dark Seduction, Passion Ignited, and Born of Silence are still available, they're just under the Primordial Guardians™ series name now.

Check back in a few days, I should (hopefully) have some fun news to share. :o)

Tory Michaels and Prophecy of Blood

Today I'd like to welcome Tory Michaels, who has joined me to talk about her Paranormal Romance/Urban Fantasy novel, Prophecy of Blood (The Dream-Walker War: Book 3). She's even agreed to choose one lucky commenter to win a copy of Prophecy of Blood (comments must be added by January 28th, 2013 for a chance to enter).

Thanks so much for joining me, Tory!

So, when did you first start writing and when did you finish your first book?

I’ve been writing as long as I can remember. If you mean the very first I ever finished (as in a first novel, as opposed to a kid’s book), 15. I remember I called it Obsession because I just couldn’t let that puppy go. I cringe to think at how bad the thing was (I thought it was great then of course) and I even remember sending a query letter on it. Thankfully I realized it was the junk it was and pitched it around my 19^th birthday or so.

How did you choose the genre you write in?

It wasn’t a conscious decision that I know of. I just was always drawn to the vampire/paranormal genre in the movies and books I read. I played a lot of role-playing games, including Vampire: the Masquerade which is where I originated all of the main characters for the Dream-Walker War. (Chris, Anthony and Dara were all Ventrue, Jordan was a Toreador). When I started writing again a few years ago, Dara finally insisted I write her story down once and for all. That led to Chris and ultimately Prophecy of Blood.

What was your life like before becoming an author?

Assuming you mean published, not much different, other than perhaps I’m spending a bit more time and money on promotion than I did before. Heh. I still squeeze in my writing time in the early morning and at lunch time. I stress more over being productive (which I’m not, based on how slow I manage to put together usable WIPs) because I know I need to pump books out, but I can’t seem to go very fast.

Which comes first: The character's story or the idea for the novel?

Usually the character themself, and then I figure out what’s going to happen to that character. It’s a bit different now with the Dream-Walker War. I have a definite overall story arc and I know how this series is supposed to end…I’m just not really clear on its destination and who best to show the movement toward that destination.

Do you work with an outline, or just write?

I really hate the word outline. I try to write them, but it rarely does more than give me a starting point and then I branch off from there quite quickly (sometimes within two chapters). Usually though, when I’m trying to get a new project off the ground, I’ll just write and follow wherever the story takes me. I always like to have an idea of my final destination within a particular story, but sometimes I don’t get that until I’ve been plucking away at the book, and then I have to go back and fix a lot.

What are you working on now?

I’m working on Book 4 of the Dream-Walker War. At the moment, I’m tentatively setting it a year after the events in Blood Rage, Blood-Mage Rising and Prophecy of Blood. That’s quite a switch because the first three books take place concurrently (well, Rising & Prophecy take place over the same period as Rage), and this one (I think) will be significantly after, to give the world a chance to adjust to what happens at the end of Prophecy. I’m also starting to gather notes/plot ideas for a couple of alternate things in different settings (one contemporary romance and one a sci-fi romance).

How did you come up with the title? 

All my books thus far have had “blood” in the title, and given the central part of the book is about trying to avert a prophecy, Prophecy of Blood seemed appropriate.

Alright, now it's time for some random questions. Have you ever gone out in public with your shirt on backwards, or your slippers on, and when realizing it, just said screw it?

I can go you one better – I’ve gone out, knowing I had baby spit-up on me and didn’t find it worth the effort of changing (I have twin 22 m/o girls, so there was a lot of very little sleep nights).

Be honest, how often do you wash your hair?

2-3 times a week. I don’t need to wash it more than that, and it’d get too dry.

If your book were made into a movie, who do you picture playing each characters part? 

That I can answer because I have definite people I picture in the parts when I write them.Dara: Amy Adams (if she shrank a couple of inches and added about 20-25 pounds)Anthony: Johann Urb (pilot named Sasha in the movie 2012, warrior in the most recent Resident Evil movie)Jordan: A cross between Eric Johnson (Rookie Blue and a bunch of other stuff) and Michael Fassbender (X-Men, Inglurious Basterds, etc)Chris: Katie McGrath (Merlin).

Blurb for Prophecy of Blood:

One hundred ninety-eight seasons after the mushroom-shaped clouds first blossom to poison the humans of the Rising Sun, near the beginning of the Season of Inundation, Atlantis will return.

With those words ringing in their ears, vampires Christine Javert and Jordan MacNaught find themselves in a race against time to stop the return of Atlantis. As they hunt for the deadly Ares, they discover the true depths of his plot to incite a world-wide species war, turning the humans against all the non-humans, not just the vampires as they’d originally thought.

Excerpt

“Dude, next time just tap me on the shoulder.”

She needed to lodge the protest, though her body sang at the familiar touch. She and her body needed to have a good, long talk about this situation. He shouldn’t be able to make her go mushy just by putting an arm around her. Not when they’d sated their lust so recently.

As expected, Jordan wore a suit that evening, and it suited him perfectly. No tie for a change though, and his crisp shirt was unbuttoned at the collar. So for him, he was going for a casual look.

The arm around her back drifted south until his hand rested on her ass and gave it a gentle squeeze. “My way’s more fun. Admit it, wasn’t it fun, seeing him slink off?”

He grinned. How a grown man frozen in his early twenties could continually look like a mischievous little boy when he grinned was beyond her. But it worked for him. Chris shook her head and groaned. Protest. Remember? You’re doing the whole friend thing, and friends don’t grab friends’ asses. Not even friends you bounce at every opportunity. With an effort, she leveled out her breathing. “I didn’t expect to see you here so early. I was heading out soon.”

Even with the attempt to moderate her voice, her words came out breathy. She cringed internally. If Jordan noticed, he didn’t comment. “You need a keeper. I’ve appointed myself to the task.”

Arrogant jackanapes. Rather than draw a scene by having a conversation in the middle of the dance floor without dancing, she sighed and looped his arms around his neck. At least she didn’t have to bother with the intricacies of a waltz. The last time she’d danced with him had been in London, the night before he buried her.

The hand on her butt squeezed again. “What was that thought? You just scowled.”

She shook her head. “Nothing.”

He frowned, but let the matter drop. “You look smashing, Chrissy. Why were you wasting it on the dog?”

“It was a dance, nothing more. Not that it’s any of your business.”

Dozens of people surrounded them, but she saw only Jordan. Felt him as his other hand trailed lazily down her back. His lips brushed her ear as he leaned close. “After earlier, I might just make it my business.”

Her mouth went dry, and she blinked at him. “Huh, wha’?”

 “I make a lousy friend, as you well know.” He cupped the back of her head and kissed her. Her knees threatened to buckle. “And since I intend to be inside you again at the earliest possible moment, the ‘friend’ label doesn’t fit.”

Oh. Wowser. She licked her lips, saw an answering flare of arousal flash in the green eyes staring into hers. “You’re not serious. Like, you want to date?” He blew my mind, but it was that good for him, too?

“Such a dull word, but sufficient.” He drew her closer. Fire followed the path of his lips around the bottom of the dark-blue choker she wore to cover up the nasty scar from the attack that left her almost dead. He took a long sniff, no doubt smelling the Princess perfume she daubed on. “You smell good enough to eat, Chrissy. I could spend hours doing just that.”

The already warm nightclub turned scorching. Maybe it was just her temperature.

“In that obnoxious pink bed of yours.”

She squeezed her eyes shut, tried not to picture them in her room. It definitely was her temperature soaring, not the club’s.

Jordan’s voice dropped to a husky whisper. “Arms and legs restrained, holding you open for me. No escape, no retreat.”

Her non-existent imagination conjured the image up in startling detail, bolstered by the memory of the handcuffs around her wrists earlier. She whimpered, couldn’t help the moisture that trickled from her to soak her panties. Oh damn, no. That should not turn me on. Not him. Not like this, not again.

She moved with the music, turning to press her back into him. His strong, sure hands pulled her hips against his in a dance they’d done so many times together, one that had nothing to do with music.

“And the thought, being with me like that, excites you. Letting control go earlier like you did, gave you a rush you’ve never gotten before in sex.” Jordan pushed the hair at her neck to the side. Sharp fangs sank against her throat, not quite breaking the skin, his other hand drifting up to cup her breast. The fabric of her dress did nothing to shield her against the heat of his palm. “Did you sneak out afterward because of how it made you feel?”

Teasing touches trades down her sides until he reached the hem of her skirt. His hand slid beneath to caress the skin of her thigh just above her garter.

Take back control, Chris. You steam-roller. Men don’t do this shit to you. Nor did she want them to. Right? Except him, damn it all to hell. And he was talking about feelings? What the fuck? Struggling to keep her head against the sensuality he dragged out of her, she clamped her hands over his wrists to still his movements. With only a hint of her normal forcefulness, she said, “Knock it off, MacNaught.”

“Or what, hmm? Let go, Chrissy. You’d enjoy yourself more if you relaxed. Remember?”

He twisted his wrist, broke her admittedly weak grip on him, and the exploration of her leg continued. She colored, prayed no one was staring at them. The display, while making her hornier than a bitch in heat, was mild for the ‘Cor. It didn’t matter, because she flat out didn’t do public affection. None of her boyfriends crossed the line with her, knowing she’d flatten them if they pushed too far.

She couldn’t flatten Jordan though. To make it worse, she didn’t want to.

Goosebumps rose in the wake of his caresses over her thighs. His fingers inched upward, just brushing her mound, only blocked by the flimsy barrier of her soaked panties.

He laughed softly in her ear. “You say no, but your body, your oh-so-pretty pussy says yes, doesn’t it?”

Chris twitched. If she didn’t move away, didn’t break this off, the bastard would think he could maul her whenever he wanted. And what’s wrong with that? So what if he does the caveman thing? You read the trashy romance novels, and are surprised when someone acting like those alpha assholes turns you on?

A harsh blast of noise from behind her head where it plastered against Jordan’s suit coat worked as effectively as a bucket of water.

Author Bio

Originally from the Sacramento Valley, Tory packed up and moved all the way to Southwest Florida in 2004 with her husband (a Florida native) under the premise that ‘hurricanes almost never hit that part of the state.’ That year, 4 blasted the area. 4 more came the following year, and her husband blames her for bringing the hurricanes. She now resides in Jacksonville and is relieved that, thus far, no more hurricanes have followed her around. She began writing in kindergarten when a turnip wished to be human and, other than a hiatus shortly after getting married, has never stopped. Her love of vampires began somewhere in junior high, and combining the two loves didn’t take long. She loves music, considers herself a ‘book slut’ whose reading habits would break her family financially if given free reign, and is (usually) delighted to be a mommy of twin Shrimpettes and a Shrimp.

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Buy Links

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